Eden Hazard Doubtful For Chelsea’ Encounter Against West Ham

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Chelsea’ robust midfielder Eden Hazard, is doubtful for their clash against West Ham. Hazard, suffered a knock in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory against Stoke City, following a crunch tackle by Jonathan Walters. The play-maker consequently limped off, late in the game. Jose Mourinho, was quick to criticize the tackle made by Walters and condemned it as a red card felony. Although, the referee gave a yellow card to Walters, damage for Chelsea, in the form of a Hazard knock, was already done.

Chelsea will hope that their impressive form continues, when they entertain West Ham at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are on a cruise, and sit three points ahead of second placed Manchester City. Still, with the hectic Christmas schedule taking it’s course, Chelsea would hope that they bag a win against West Ham, to solidify their perch.

Meanwhile, Oscar is expected to start for Chelsea, given that they Brazilian did not play part in Chelsea’ victory over Stoke. A 4-2-3-1, with Oscar coming back into his favored position as an advanced playmaker and Fabregas dropping back to the pivot, could be Chelsea’ kryptonite against West Ham.

West Ham, are expected to defend in numbers, commit men behind the ball and attack through long balls. The abundance of physicality present in their strikers, like Andy Carroll, is expected to be West Ham’s numero uno weapon.

An enticing clash, between Carroll and John Terry, could be the feature of the match. Both, are known for their imposing physical presence and with Chelsea, committing men forward, hopefully in an attempt to breach West Ham’s defense, Terry could be handed the task to mark Carroll.

Nonetheless, it could be an eye-candy for fans and critics, alike.

Chelsea will expect that their impressive form and link-up plays, successfully breach a resolute West Ham defense. Chelsea, have already been dubbed as favorites for the Premier League title and with the club dishing out impressive performances, time and time again, little could argue.

Still, with Manchester City equally competent, after a purple patch which saw them nine points adrift of the league leaders, some weeks back, Chelsea would look to thwart their advances and would hope to extend that three point gap between them.